Dear Editor,

Our practice of politics and religion influences the tone of national criminality. Our children and youth are soaking up the current disgraceful happenings perpetrated by our leaders in the manner in which they are dealing with the issues related to extradition, gun-running and drug-pushing.

In due course, this generation of children and youth will respond. Criminal elements born out of this current leadership saga will unleash on the nation a backlash of deviance and crime which will make the current wave appear to be no more than a ripple. We are heading towards deeper hot water.

How our leaders resolve this crisis will significantly determine the nation’s future. Believe it or not, the next generation is watching and learning. The debate, accusations, defence, delaying tactics and self-justification are so largely lacking in intelligence. Our children are shocked and ashamed at the feeble, mindless, partisan-driven positions and expressions coming from our leaders.

There is hope, however. The current political crisis, which has given rise to this national shock and disgrace, creates an opportunity, a defining moment for our people and leaders to start the process of halting Jamaica’s reckless drive towards the deep pits.

Owen Williams Barbados

owilliams@caribsurf.com